Compassionate care every step of the way.

Educational Resources

Thank you for choosing the Center for Reproductive Health for your care. Our goal is to help you achieve a healthy pregnancy and delivery in the shortest time possible. Your care team at Center for Reproductive Health will design a treatment plan tailored to you. Your path to parenthood will be respected, prioritized and personally designed to meet your goals.

Our fertility specialists are available to answer any questions you have along the way. Just call, (509) 462-7070
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Understanding Fertility

Fertility is a deeply personal and complicated issue. While there are often contributing factors to fertility-related issues, there is usually no clear cause for why some people have trouble with fertility and others don't. But in today's technological world, there are an abundance of resources and techniques that can help you achieve your dream. And we can help. From basic to advanced procedures, all services are offered right here in Spokane.

5 Steps of IVF treatment

Personalized Education

Your conditions and circumstances are unique, so your treatment should be, too.

Each Center for Reproductive Health couple is provided with personalized education throughout treatment. Along with detailed education about how each step of the IVF process is carried out, our Nurse Coordinators provide in-depth injection teaching. Both partners are given individual, hands-on training in a classroom setting by Karen Weaver, our Patient Liaison. Injections can be a stressful element of the process. We want to make every patient feel confident in their ability to mix and give injectable medications. This training is included in the fee you pay for your cycle.

Terminology/Medications

Below you can learn about fertility terminology and related medications by clicking on "Terminology" or "Medications", then selecting the terms or medications on the left. Descriptions will show to the right.

About Your Care

The information is meant to give you a picture of your treatment while you are working with us at the Center for Reproductive Health. Your Nurse Coordinator manages your care through the process. She is accessible by phone or email. Once you have read through the material, make a list of questions you may have and call your Nurse Coordinator. She will help you with your questions.

Here are some common topics important for understanding infertility treatments:

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what DAY 1 is?Day 1 of your cycle is the first day of actual flow. Not just spotting but red bleeding. Some women spot for a few days prior to DAY 1. Always call your nurse ON DAY 1 of your cycle. Not when you are spotting.

What are DAY 3 labs? DAY 3 labs are drawn on DAY 2, 3, or 4 of your cycle. We are checking estradiol, FSH, and LH blood levels. These are baseline labs and every patient will have these done. These particular blood tests must be processed in the laboratory at our clinic because we have specialized equipment. For patients who live out of town, this means that you will need to come to Spokane for this blood test OR have the blood drawn at a near-by lab and ship the blood serum to our clinic.How do I ship my blood samples to your clinic? See shipping instructions sheet.

What is a Clomid Challenge Test? A Clomid Challenge Test (CCCT) is done to test the function of your ovaries. Clomid is not used as a treatment protocol, but as a diagnostic tool. Most women ages 35 and older are required to have a CCCT. The blood tests included in this test are DAY 3 labs and a DAY 10 FSH. These blood test must also be processed in our laboratory.

What are IVF Labs? These are a panel of tests that are required for IVF in our clinic. Most of these are infectious disease labs such as HIV, Hep B and C, and HTLC. Others include blood type, TSH, CBC, and Prolactin. The male partner will also need these tests if IVF is indicated.

What is an SA? SA stands for “Semen Analysis”. Every male partner will need an SA in our office.

What is a hysteroscope? A hysteroscope is done in our office by Dr. Robins to determine the integrity of the uterus and to evaluate if the fallopian tubes are open. If you live outside of Spokane, an HSG may be done in place of a hysteroscope. How soon can I start the IVF Process? It can take up to 8 weeks to prepare you for IVF, depending on what diagnostic tests need to be done.

Why do I need to take oral contraceptive (OC) pills?We use OC’s to schedule a hysteroscopy appointment, to align your menstrual cycle with your IVF cycle, to initiate menses, and as a suppression medication in IVF.

Getting Started

We’re inspired to be part of your fertility decision.

You deserve a detailed understanding of our approach to helping you add another loved one to your family. We’d like to share with you an informative overview, so you’re comfortable with the entire process.

Family Starts Here.

The Inland Northwest's largest, all-inclusive fertility center

At the Center for Reproductive Health, we understand the importance of becoming a family, because we are one. As a leader in reproductive technologies, we're dedicated to compassionate and individualized treatment to help you find your path to parenthood. Our innovative techniques and advanced medical care provide comprehensive chromosomal profiles, resulting in reduced miscarriage rates and higher implantation rates for healthy embryos. We can make building your family an exciting reality, with support every step of the way.